Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace stove, the perfect surround can really make the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point in the room and can break up walls that might otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily taken down after the holidays.

It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a strong solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available from many home and DIY stores. They are also sold online by retailers like Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for ethanol fire hazards requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your home since it blends with your interior design but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home faster and for more money.

There are many kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and can last an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.

Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that is worth the investment. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will make it a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One disadvantage of a Stone fireplaces fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or ethonal fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is heat resistant, so unlike other materials it will not change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.

If you're going with an elegant fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles like the swirls in this home by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. You'll also have to wipe it down regularly to prevent water and etching stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.

You can offer your customers a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic style for any home. This stone is available in a variety of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to resist smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.

If your clients are looking for a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite is amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the area looking beautiful.

Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma. It naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or pair it with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be used to help with draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in a room. The type of steel that you select will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.

Some fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to house decorative items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also install the surround alone, without the mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is safe away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.